Caulfield Hospital serves up new table tennis program for patients
A new table tennis program at Caulfield Hospital is providing patients with another form of activity to promote recovery, thanks to a collaboration with Table Tennis Victoria.
The hospital has teamed up with Table Tennis Victoria, who have donated two wheel-chair accessible tables and coaching support to help patients reach their rehabilitation goals.
Associate Director of Allied Health Dina Watterson said the table tennis extends on an already full rehabilitation program and adds another activity to help patients build their independence.
“We know from listening to our patients that they enjoy therapy, and the table tennis program is another activity they can add to their daily tailored program,” Ms Watterson said.
“Table tennis is great as it encourages physical activity, coordination and strategy, and it can be modified to support people’s different abilities,” Ms Watterson said.
“We are grateful to Table Tennis Victoria for their generous donation of tables and ongoing weekly patient coaching sessions in Rehabilitation and Psychiatry.”
Ken Dawber is a table tennis coach with more than 35 years of experience in the sport, and has volunteered at the sessions to pass on some of his skill.
“I’ve enjoyed seeing improvement in each patient every time they come in," Mr Dawber said.
Table Tennis Victoria CEO Dennis Makaling said the organisation was excited to be able to partner with Caulfield Hospital thanks to funding provided by Sport and Recreation Victoria, and provide another outlet to help patients with their rehabilitation.
“Table tennis is beneficial for improving hand-eye coordination, reflexes, mobility and decision making, which can help patients recover from various medical conditions,” Mr Makaling said.
“We hope to encourage all patients to continue playing table tennis even after leaving the hospital as our sport provides a great social outlet in club environments – whether for fun or competition.”
